3.00 Credits
This course provides a broad overview of some of the legal issues which may affect the visual artist as well as other creative professionals. It is not designed to make lawyers of students but rather to create a heightened awareness of legal issues which may require that the artist seek the counsel of a legal professional. The course will address the question "What is art?" and explain various rights of the artist to protect his/her art through copyright and moral rights. Additionally, we will spend time examining the work of artists who have pushed the boundaries of what is acceptable in society and will discuss the attempts to censor work which may be deemed offensive by certain groups. Students will learn the basics of contract law, review different types of contracts which they may encounter in their professional life, and learn what might be a "red flag" when negotiating contract language. Finally, the course will cover forms of business entities from self-employment to the incorporation of a business, including nonprofit arts organizations. The course will draw on current issues and cases in the art world and students will be expected to access online resources and to share their thoughts and opinions in online discussions groups.